Shively Christian Church

In Galatians 6:1-10, Paul is starting to wrap things up in his letter. He's getting into the last meaty issues before he signs off...

 

None of us would veer dare to say that we are perfect in fact we all know full well aht we are far from it...but for some reason we still like to put on a face for the world that makes it look like we still have all our ducks in a row, and that we have no deep-seeded issues to deal with...we go to church, and so therefore we have already attained perfection.

 

But Paul knows better than this, so he addresses this problem with the church in Galatia. When we see someone else has been exposed in their sin, we are to restore them gently. Why? Because that could have been us, and may well be someday. It's not a matter of if someone catches us in a weak moment, or speaking in an manner that doesn't exactly bring honor to God, it's  a matter of when...

 

So, we need to do as Jesus told us when he told us how to confront someone who has wronged us in Matthew 18:15-18. It is a multistep process, done quietly at first. When we help restore someone, we don't need to broadcast their shortcoming to the world. We should rather treat them the way we would want to be treated if we were the ones being scrutinized.

 

John 6:14-15 says, "¹⁴ "For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵ "But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions."

And we remember that Jesus told Peter not to forgive just 7 times, but 70x7, meaning completely and every time they ask.

 

We are going to encounter people every day who are already carrying around bags of guilt. We do not need to add to it, but rather bring them to the One who has an easy load to carry, and rest for the weary. Then they may see His gift of grace, and receive it, or if they already know Him, they may be stirred to restore their relationship with Him.

 

And always remember to test yourself, make sure you are walking the path God desires for you. That Golden Rule wasn't just for kids...it works for everyone, and once someone has seen mercy through your actions in their time of weakness, maybe you'll see it in yours as well.